The different array of pets available can make it hard to decide on one. You could get a cat, a fish, a reptile, or even a amphibian. If you are looking for a pet that will be your best friend and always by your side, a dog is an excellent choice. Read on to find out what it takes to take care of your dog.
Make your home dog-proof. Take the time to tour your home with an eye for safety before you introduce your dog to your home. Secure the trash can, stow way all medications and put away your regular cleaning supplies. Make sure no toxic plants are in the vicinity of your dogs.
While you can hug your dog, you should avoid kissing your dog. Dog kissing may be adorable, but dogs have awfully dirty mouths. Dogs go through garbage cans, toilet bowls, and love smelling and licking specific body parts of some other dogs. Keep in mind that an animal’s mouth is full of germs. It simply is not true.
Whenever you bring your dog along on vacations, take a quick snapshot of him and keep it on your phone. This way, if you find out that your dog went missing along the way, you will have a recent picture that you can show to people when you go out to look for you pet.
Talk to the veterinarian about the proper amount of food for your dog. The amounts on the label might not apply in your dog’s situation. Therefore, ask your vet the acceptable amount of dog food your dog needs to ensure its health and well-being.
Real Bones
Give your pooch rawhide bones instead of those from real meat. Real bones can break into pieces that can then become dangerous due to how sharp and small they can be. Rawhide is a great treat you can use in lieu of real bones.
Whenever you adopt from the pound, take the dog straight to the vet. Shelter dogs have likely been exposed to all kinds of viruses, such as parvo and distemper, which are deadly. You need to ensure your dog gets their shots.
Make sure to exercise your dog often. A dog requires regular exercise and game time; it keeps him healthy and happy, both mentally and physically. From a walk to chasing a ball, everything counts. It will help you form a much stronger relationship.
To prevent the hair around a dog’s paws from matting, you should keep it trimmed. Clean and comb the hair before you trim it. If you’re too scared, take him to the groomer instead.
If your veterinarian prescribes medication or special care for your pet, make sure you follow their instructions to the letter. The dog may hate that cone on its head, but it’s there for a very good reason! If your veterinarian recommends something, it’s because it’s what’s best for your dog. If you ignore recommendations, your dog could have some major health issues.
If you have to go out, leave the TV or radio on when you leave. The noise make them feel more secure and keeps them company. It might help with any anxiety issues.
You need to ensure your dog will come back if he runs away; that is why you need to have a collar with his information on it. A common way to find a lost dog is to ensure it has a collar with an ID tag. Keep the ID tags updated with your current contact information. Another good thing to do would be to have a micro-chip put in your dog.
Keep your annual appointments for check-ups with your dog. A good vet will be able to easily spot problems with your dog way before you actually see something. An annual physical can save your dog’s life.
Dogs can often get cuts by stepping on glass and other debris. If your dog gets a small cut, wash it with an antiseptic and place a bandage around the area. If the cut is relatively deep, bring your dog to the vet.
When selecting a new dog to come and live with an existing dog, take your current dog to meet him if at all possible. Dogs are quite social, but sometimes two particular dogs just are not compatible with each other. Having dogs that get along with each other makes your life that much easier.
You need to really consider adding a dog to your home. You can quickly fall deeply in love with a puppy without considering everything that is involved. Consider everything beforehand so that you know whether or not you can confidently manage it all.
Some vitamins are not beneficial for dogs. You don’t need to give vitamins to your dog if you feed a properly balanced food. An excess of some vitamins can cause blood vessel damage, as well as damage to his joints and bones. Speak to the vet before you give your dog any vitamins.
Table Scraps
You need to be firm with your dog. When you first bring a dog home, you might think it’s fine to sneak them table scraps or let them chew on your shoes. This is particularly true when the dog is cute! But, by staying firm on the rules, you can avoid issues. You might think it is okay to give your dog table scraps, but pretty soon he’ll be jumping up on the table and helping himself.
At first, it’s not easy to bring a canine home. However, you’ll be better prepared for the journey by using the advice above. Keep learning more about dogs and how to care for them. Your pet will never want for anything and will be a faithful companion for years to come.
